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Just how better can Barca make the most of Madrid’s slip up yesterday? Barcelona have capitalized on Real Madrid’s loss to reinvigorate their title hopes with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Alavés at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The win, produced by Robert Lewandowski’s second-half strike, have moved the Catalans to within four points of the league leaders.
The first half was a frustrating, stop-start affair, marred by constant interruptions and a lack of rhythm. Barcelona struggled to find their footing, and the game’s flow was repeatedly disrupted by fouls, offsides, and a worrying clash of heads between Gavi and Tomás Conechny. The two players were subsequently substituted as a precautionary measure, with Gavi being replaced by Frenkie de Jong and Conechny making way for Antonio Blanco.
The few notable moments from the opening half included a dazzling solo run by Lamine Yamal, who weaved past several Alavés defenders, avoiding seven tackles in the process, and a rare shot on target from Pedri. However, the halftime whistle blew after 51 minutes of disjointed play, with Barcelona facing a daunting task to break down their opponents’ stubborn resistance.
Hansi Flick’s halftime adjustments, which included introducing Eric García and Frenkie de Jong, proved to solve the puzzle as Barcelona began to assert their dominance in the second half. The team’s passing became more incisive, and their attacking play more purposeful. Lewandowski was instrumental in the turnaround, heading a chance wide before finding the net with a tap-in at the far post.
The goal, which arrived on the hour mark, was the result of a well-crafted move. Pedri’s cross found Yamal, whose first-time volley was deflected into Lewandowski’s path. The Polish striker made no mistake, securing the win and reigniting Barcelona’s title aspirations.
As the game wore on, Alavés began to commit more players forward, posing a threat on the counter and with crosses into the box. Jesús Owono, the Alavés goalkeeper, made an incredible save to deny Yamal, curling a beauty into the top corner. However, Barcelona managed to hold firm, running out the clock to secure a vital three points.
While the performance was far from vintage, the win was desperately needed and achieved. Barcelona will look to build on this momentum as they seek to close the gap on Real Madrid and reclaim their spot at the top of the table.
